Simple Swaps for Healthier Eating on a Dime

Eating healthier on a dime is all about shopping smart and knowing where to put your efforts. There are easy swaps you can make that will make a big impact on your food budget and help you spend less and eat healthier.

Instead of buying pre-prepped foods, learn to prep like a pro

Anytime someone else does anything to assist in prepping foods, they go up in price. Broccoli crowns are more expensive than broccoli with the stalk. Corn that’s shucked is more expensive than corn with the husk. Even lean meats cost more when they have been cut or seasoned. Items like dips and sauces can even be substantially more when they come pre-made.

Swap out pre-prepped foods for foods in their natural state and learn to prep like a pro. Set aside a day for prep to wash, chop, and secure your foods for the week. Learn fun ways to marinade lean fish and meats. Learn simple recipes for dips and sauces you and your family love so you can make them fresh which increases their health benefits.

Note: Many foods loose nutrients when they are peeled, chopped, or over prepped. When you can, eat foods as close to their original state for more nutritional value. Examples can include leaving the peel on carrots, apples, and other fruits and veggies for more nutritional value.

Instead of going to the grocery store, source locally- You may rely on the grocer for your food, but it’s never been more popular to source your own foods locally. From the farmers market, to farm-direct, there are plenty of ways to access the freshest foods without going to the store.

Swap out over-priced organic eggs from the store with farm fresh eggs from local farmers. These eggs tend to be fresher, last longer and cost far less. Buy honey, nuts, and other foods from the farmers market and local fruit stands. These foods tend to cost less, be fresher, and have more health benefits because they are locally grown. Did you know, consuming local honey harvested within 10 miles of your home can reduce seasonal allergies?

Instead of choosing foods on a whim, eat seasonally- Choosing your menu should be based on the season. Whatever is in season is going to be plentiful and fresh. Many food items go up in price when they are sourced from far away and they can also be grown with harmful pesticides and preservatives. Choosing foods that are in season will help keep costs down.

Swap out your food choices throughout the year. When melons and berries are at their peak, it’s a great time to dig in and enjoy their bounty. When they are out of season, fill your plate with citrus, apples, or squash dishes. Eat seasonal fresh and salt water fish when their cost is at their annual lowest prices.

There are simple swaps you can make that will reduce your overall food budget and reveal how easy it is to eat healthfully on a dime. Many swaps you won’t notice and some will make eating healthier more fun and fulfilling.